ProRodeo Sports News | March 4, 2022

COWBOY GRILLE WITH TANNER BARTH

How’d you get your start in rodeo? Waylon: My dad and all his brothers rode bareback horses. So, it was something that was always there for me growing up. I just had to wait until I was ready to take on some of the better horses. I love it and it’s something I want to continue doing for as long as I can. When did you know you could make a career out of the sport of rodeo? Waylon: In 2020, I got my permit and spent the summer trying to learn. I think after I won in Sidney, Iowa, that was when it clicked for me. I said to myself, ‘I think I belong here’ and if I want to do it, I think I need to go out and do it. Why did you decide bareback riding would be your event? Waylon: I grew up seeing family members do it and I just love it really. That’s the event that I like, and it’s pretty much always been that way. Ever since the first time I got on it’s become my passion. What’s this season been like for you? Waylon: I had a really good fall, especially in the month of October. I’ve had a good year so far, but it’s a long year, a marathon not a sprint. I think it’s going to be a really good year and I can’t wait to see what else is in store. Why did you decide to get your card this year? Waylon: This is something that I planned for quite a while. It was finally time and I think I’m riding to the best of my ability right now. I’ve been working hard at it, and it seems like it’s paying off. I was ready to buy it, so I bought it. Did you do any other rodeo events growing up? Waylon: I rode calves and steers for a while when I was younger, but never really thought about taking it to the next step as a bull rider. I’m happy with being a bareback rider. Is there someone you look up to in the sport of rodeo? Waylon: There’s a ton of guys out there in the industry who I look up to. But I really look up to my dad, he’s my true hero. He provides for my family and gives us what we need on a day-to-day basis. That’s the true meaning of a man to me. What’s one rodeo you want to win in your career? Waylon: I’m really into summer rodeos and getting to ride outside under the sun. So, I really want to win the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. Waylon Bourgeois spent two years on his permit before making the jump to being a PRCA cardholder. Now, in his rookie season he’s making his name known across the bareback riding world. Bourgeois kicked off his 2022 ProRodeo season by winning the Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo. The Church Point, La., native currently leads the Resistol Rookie of the Year standings with $6,811 earned so far.

WAYLON BOURGEOIS

What’s your go-to restaurant or meal when you’re out on the road? Waylon: It has to be a good steak. I feel like that refuels my body and helps me out in the long run. I try to eat as healthy as I can when we’re out on the road.

Do you have a favorite candy? Waylon: I don’t really eat that much candy, but if I would have to say one it would probably be Rolo.

What was the make of your first car? Waylon : It was a 2013, Dodge RAM 1500. Do you have a favorite sports team? Waylon: I really like LSU when it comes to college football. I’m a college baseball fan as well and like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. When you’re not rodeoing what do you enjoy doing for fun? Waylon: I really love to play golf. I play at least once every time I’m home. What’s your favorite holiday? Waylon: I would have to say Christmas. My family has a big get together and I love being with my family. What type of music do you like listening to? Waylon: I enjoy listening to Robbie Hodges and I also really like Casey Donahew.

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